Amazon to hire 120,000 workers in the U.S. for holiday season

Amazon.com Inc (AMZN.O) said it would hire 120,000 workers in the United States this holiday season, same as last year, as the online behemoth prepares for the holiday shopping frenzy.

Shoppers this year will shell out more on gifts during the holidays, according to industry surveys, as a tightening job market, rising home prices and stock markets that are hovering at record highs boost consumer confidence, increasing their intent and ability to spend.

Amazon on Thursday said the seasonal jobs will be spread out over more than 75 fulfillment centers countrywide to help pick, pack and ship holiday orders. It also said it expects to convert thousands of these positions to full-time roles.